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How to Change Your Business Entity

Whether you started your business as a Sole Proprietorship, an LLC or another type of business entity, as things change, sometimes it makes sense to convert to a different type. Remember that the process for changing your business entity varies by state. In some cases, it's necessary to dissolve the existing business entity and then form a new one, while in other states, there's a simplified conversion process. Check with your Secretaty of State for details or contact us for more information.

Note: Changing your business entity is a significant decision that may affect your legal liability and your taxes. You can always get free legal advice from a lawyer when you have questions about your business.

Get StartedStart your incorporationAnswer a few questions. We'll take care of the rest.

Changing from a Sole Proprietorship to Anything Else

Since you become a sole proprietor by default when you start doing business as an individual, you change a business entity by simply forming a new business entity and contributing capital. For partnerships, this process can be as simple as signing a Partnership Agreement, while more advanced business organizations, such as Corporations (including S- and C-Corporations), or Limited Liability Companies, will require more effort and paperwork. At a minimum, Articles of Incorporation or Organization will have to be filed with the appropriate state authorities. Corporations must also establish Bylaws and conduct a formal meeting of shareholders, while LLCs are often less strictly regulated.

Converting a Partnership or Limited Liability Company to a Corporation

The situation is different when you want to change a business entity from one formalized type to another, such as when switching from a Partnership or a Limited Liability Company to a Corporation. To accomplish this, generally you will have to form a new Corporation and then dissolve the old business entity, but check with your Secretary of State because some allow you to convert the business instead. The transfer of assets and liabilities from the old company to the new one is usually done through one of the following three methods: by directly transferring assets and liabilities from the old entity into the new Corporation, distributing assets and liabilities to the owners who then transfer them to the new Corporation, or contributing partnership or LLC shares to the Corporation. All three exchanges trade capital interest in the old business for corporate stock in the current one. The old Partnership or LLC is considered terminated upon the liquidation of its assets. Note that while the conversion is technically tax free, gains made through the process, such as reduced liability, have to be reported and may be taxed.

Converting a Corporation to an LLC

One of the potentially most expensive conversions is one that changes a C-Corporation into a Limited Liability Company. The exact cost is determined by the value of company assets and whether or not a loss is being generated. The conversion can be accomplished by dissolving the corporation and forming an LLC with the assets of the liquidated corporation, although some states offer a simplified conversion process. Note that any reorganization that does not liquidate the original corporation entirely may be scrutinized by the IRS with all the consequences that entails.

Converting a Corporation or LLC to a Partnership or Sole Proprietorship

Often, the simplest way to convert a business is to dissolve, and totally liquidate the assets of, a corporation or LLC, distributing the assets to shareholders and/or owners. Sole proprietor status is conferred immediately upon beginning business, while Partnership hinges on the Partnership Agreement being signed. Check with your Secretary of State to find out the exact process, because you may be able to convert to a different business entity instead of dissolving it in some cases.

Considerations

Note that changing your business entity may have additional consequences. For example, if you are running a business that requires licensing, you will have to apply for a new license for the new business entity. Always make sure to review and comply with local and state regulations, preferably by consulting a qualified attorney and checking the rules with your Secretary of State. Ask a lawyer now to get the personalized guidance you need to change your business entity the right way.

Get StartedStart your incorporationAnswer a few questions. We'll take care of the rest.

Get StartedStart your incorporationAnswer a few questions. We'll take care of the rest.

This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.

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